Synergy. The newest buzz word streaming through ears, homes, and minds. Synergy is the fusing of forces, thoughts, or ideas that in turn make something better, stronger, and more appealing. The connection can be small and simple, the way wine and cheese can make a perfect pairing, or peanut butter and jelly can still bring on a smile. It could be your new cell phone, evolved from ‘emergency use only’ to a purse staple that is an email checker, GPS navigator, iPod playing, internet browsing, and picture taking handheld device. Digging a little deeper, it could even be the process of developing a mind-body connection, in which you use the powers of the mind and body to listen to one another in order to determine how the Self feels, moves, develops, and craves.

How do we take this powerful force and use it to our benefit in everyday life? Consider our workout routines. How can we fuse several aspects of fitness moves together and create an intense workout that builds our body faster, stronger, and leaner?

Good news! The world of fitness has made it easier than ever to get all you need in your workout in just a short amount of time. Fusion workouts exist all around us. Booty Ballet, Cardio Striptease, and Beach Boot Camp. New workout combo classes are popping up all over. Not only are they full-body workouts, these classes make working out fun!

How To Get Started

Step one is to research local places that offer unique fitness classes. Many gyms located across the country offer both basic group classes and fusion classes. Keep your eye out for anything involving dance. Cardio dance classes are one of the simplest synergetic classes you can take. You will work up a sweat while toning muscles, and the music and moves will take your mind off the fact that you are actually working out! Another great way to spot a fusion workout class is to look for class names that combine two words into one. ‘Yoga-lates’ is one you just may find fantabulous!

Step two is to find individual studios that offer fusion workouts. I teach a pilates class, RockIt Body Pilates, that integrates cardio and strength training with traditional pilates exercises. We, like many other small studios, offer personalized attention, a wide variety of class times, and instructors who are extensively trained. One good way to find places close to you is through a simple Google search. Try entering your zip code into the Google search bar and click on the map that appears first in your results. Once you are on the map, click “Search Nearby” and try out search terms such as, “yoga,” “pilates,” “fitness,” “workout studio,” and “adult dance”. Note that you may have to be careful with the last one! Google will list all the places located in your area with matching results. You can even enter your street address for a more local search.

Another way to get yourself in the fusion groove is to find ways to synergize and shake up your workout routine on your own. Are you a runner? Try stopping every so often and doing ten pushups, 25 crunches, or five lunges on each leg. Are you a strength trainer? Grab a jump rope and build up your cardio in between reps or machines. Two minute intervals of jump roping will boost your cardio and help you burn fat.

A good rule of thumb - if you are doing a high-cardio workout, try incorporating in slower toning exercises. If you are doing a slow-strength training workout, try mixing in jumping jacks, step-up lunges, and other exercises to get your heart pumping. The difference you will see in your body, especially in leaning and toning your muscles, is incredible.

So wait no longer! More options are available right now than ever for you to have a workout that is fun, energizing, and effective. Your body is just waiting for you to synergize!

RockIt Body Fitness Experts